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Recovering from hip or knee replacement surgery is a journey that takes time, patience, and the right care. Whether you’ve had a total hip replacement or total knee replacement, it’s normal to wonder how long recovery will take, what activities you can do, and what symptoms are part of the healing process.
Thanks to Practice Plus Group’s Joint School, we’ve answered the most common questions about hip and knee replacement post-operative recovery! These are designed to help you feel informed, supported, and confident as you progress on your journey to full recovery.
Private hip and knee surgery at a glance
- Waiting time: 4-6 weeks
- Ways to pay: self-pay, insured, payment plans
- Procedure time: 1-3 hours
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Swelling, stiffness, pain, disturbed sleep, and clicking are all normal parts of hip or knee replacement recovery, gradually improving over weeks to months with consistent exercises and careful activity progression. Patients should follow professional guidance on walking, driving, returning to work, travelling, and resuming daily activities to ensure a safe and successful recovery.
Is swelling normal after hip or knee replacement surgery?
Yes, swelling is a common part of post-operative recovery after hip and knee replacement. Swelling can persist for up to 12 weeks – sometimes lasting longer – and can be aggravated by excessive activity.
To help manage swelling:
- elevate your leg with your knee or hip above heart level
- apply ice packs wrapped in a towel for 15–20 minutes, 3–5 times a day
- avoid overexertion in the first weeks after hip or knee replacement.
If the swelling worsens, or if your leg becomes very red, warm, or painful, contact your post-operative care team immediately.
Why is my scar warm after hip or knee surgery?
Warmth around your scar is a normal part of healing after hip or knee replacement surgery. It’s caused by increased blood flow as tissues repair themselves.
However, if you notice excessive redness, leakage, or feel unwell, reach out to your post-operative advice line. These symptoms could be signs of infection.
How long will pain last after hip or knee replacement?
Whether you’ve had a hip or knee replacement, some pain is expected in the weeks afterwards. This pain typically improves over time, but some mild discomfort may persist for several months.
Remember to follow your prescribed pain relief plan. If your pain is severe or not controlled by medication, get in touch with your physiotherapist for some post-operative pain management guidance. Proper pain management is essential to help with mobility and improve overall recovery outcomes.
How long should I keep doing my post-operative exercises?
The simple answer to this is: for as long as possible. Consistent exercise helps prevent stiffness, improve mobility, and supports faster recovery after hip replacement and recovery after knee replacement.
Remember to follow the plan set out by your physiotherapist to regain strength and flexibility. If you’re still struggling six weeks post-op, you may need a physiotherapy review.
Why does my new joint click?
A clicking or popping sound in your new hip or knee joint is common during post-operative recovery. It’s usually nothing to worry about and is caused by the way your implant moves.
If your joint clicks with pain or instability, contact your physiotherapy department for more advice.
Why does my hip or knee feel stiff after sitting?
Stiffness is normal during hip and knee replacement post-operative recovery. After sitting or lying down, your joint may feel tight when you first stand.
Gentle movement, light stretches, and walking regularly will improve circulation and help your joint regain flexibility. Stiffness should gradually ease as you progress through your knee or hip replacement recovery timeline.
Is disturbed sleep normal after hip or knee surgery?
Unfortunately, yes. But the good news is it’s temporary! Discomfort, stiffness, and difficulty finding a comfortable position can disturb sleep during post-operative recovery.
Try gentle stretching or a short walk to improve circulation if you wake up in discomfort. Over time, your sleep pattern should return to normal as your recovery progresses.
When can I walk without crutches or walking aids?
Walking is a key part of post-operative recovery after hip and knee replacement surgery. Most patients can walk without aids indoors after 4–6 weeks and outdoors after 6–8 weeks.
Always use your crutch or stick on the opposite side to your operated leg, and only stop using aids when you can walk without a limp. Safe walking supports faster recovery.
How far should I walk after hip or knee surgery?
Your walking distance depends on your pre-surgery fitness and activity level. Build up gradually according to your rehabilitation plan.
Avoid overexertion too early to prevent making swelling or inflammation worse. Gradually upping your distance will improve stamina and confidence in your post-operative recovery.
When can I drive after hip or knee replacement?
Most patients can resume driving around six weeks post-surgery. While it’s not mandatory, if you think you’re ready to get back behind the wheel post-surgery, it’s a good idea to contact your insurance provider to check the fine print of your policy. Essentially, you’ll need to be able to perform an emergency stop without pain and no longer be taking strong pain medication.
Some patients take up to 12 weeks depending on which leg was operated on. Getting back behind the wheel is an important milestone in hip and knee replacement rehabilitation.
When can I go back to work after a hip or knee replacement?
Returning to work depends on your job and recovery progress. Many patients resume work between 6–12 weeks after their surgery.
Physically demanding jobs may require a phased return or light duties. Listening to your body and following your post-operative care plan will support a smooth transition back to work.
When can I return to the gym or swimming?
Low-impact exercise is encouraged during post-operative recovery after hip or knee replacement surgery, but timing is crucial:
- Gym: Start with gentle walking, cycling, or stretching after 6 weeks if cleared by your physiotherapist.
- Swimming: Wait until your wound is fully healed (around 6 weeks), and avoid breaststroke until 8–10 weeks.
High-impact activities such as running should be avoided until fully cleared.
When can I have sex after hip or knee replacement surgery?
Most patients can resume sexual activity 6–8 weeks after surgery, as long as movements are comfortable and don’t cause pain. Avoid positions that put strain on your new joint.
This is a normal part of recovery after hip replacement and recovery after knee replacement. Ask your healthcare provider for guidance or download our Sex after surgery guide for more information.
When can I fly after hip or knee replacement?
Flying too soon increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Avoid flights within six weeks post-surgery, and long-haul flights (over 4 hours) for up to three months.
Consult your GP if you have DVT risk factors and if you are planning on flying, make sure your travel insurance covers your recent surgery.
Will I set off airport metal detectors?
Some hip and knee implants can trigger security alarms. Metal walking aids will also go through the scanner. Simply inform airport security staff about your recent joint replacement surgery.
What if I need help at home during recovery?
If you anticipate needing home assistance, inform your healthcare team early. They’ll be able to help you arrange home care or social support.
Physiotherapists also assess whether you require aids before discharge. Planning ahead ensures safe hip and knee replacement post-operative care.
Is constipation common after surgery?
Yes, constipation is common after hip or knee replacement surgery due to pain medication. Take prescribed laxatives immediately after discharge and increase your fluid and fibre intake.
Movement also helps. Persistent issues should be discussed with your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
What are the signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) after hip or knee surgery?
A DVT is a blood clot in the leg and requires urgent attention. Watch for:
- persistent throbbing pain in one leg
- swelling, warmth, or redness
- darkened skin around the calf or thigh.
Seek immediate medical care if you suspect DVT during hip or knee replacement recovery.
Can I kneel or squat after knee replacement surgery?
Kneeling or squatting can put pressure on your new knee joint. After knee replacement surgery, start with gentle bending exercises and avoid deep squats until your physiotherapist confirms it’s safe. Gradually increasing flexibility helps support full knee replacement recovery.
Can I travel by public transport after hip or knee replacement?
Yes, but take precautions. Use walking aids, avoid standing for long periods, and allow extra time to navigate stairs or crowded areas. Gradually build confidence as part of post-operative recovery.
Will my new joint feel different from my natural joint?
Yes, your artificial joint moves differently, and this is completely normal during hip and knee replacement recovery. Over time, with physiotherapy exercises, your mobility and stability will improve.
How long does it take to regain full strength after hip or knee replacement?
Full recovery varies from patient-to-patient but many regain strength and mobility between 3–6 months after surgery. Continued exercises, adherence to your rehabilitation plan, and safe activity progression are key to successful hip and knee replacement post-operative recovery.
Recovering with confidence
Hip and knee replacement post-operative recovery takes patience. Consistent effort and following your care plan will help you regain mobility and independence. At Practice Plus Group’s Joint School, we’re here to support your journey from surgery to full recovery.
For more information on recovery timelines, check out our detailed guides:
